There are 2 types of these cars with the same underframe. The first are Antebellum (before the Civil War) with radial roofs, while the second are probably circa 1870 with clerestory roofs. Both can operate on an 18" R, but each requires a different approach due to the types of coupling used..
The older probably used hook and chain throughout their lives, with varying spacing on different railroads. A minimum spacing of about 15" might be in the range.
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MINIMUM SPACING FOR ANTEBELLUM ON 18" R
Endsill to mounting center is .260". The endsill clearance is about .0075" for a total of .015", which should present no problem in running. However in pushing the corners will touch, which may wear paint if applied. Dead blocks were commonly 8" = .09184" square and 6" = .0688" thick with inside edges 7" from centerline. A reasonable approximation can be added easily by laminating Evergreen .030" X .100" and .040 X .100" to obtain a .070" X .100" block. Top should be flush with floor or slightly below. .
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DEAD BLOCKS FOR ANTEBELLUM ON 18" R
The dead block corner will extend .0067" past pulling face line. This will increase endsill corner distance to about .014" for total clearance of .028".
Later cars probably used link and pin with 8" OD buffers spaced 11" from centerline and face plate extensions to reduce spacing and accidents. The latter can be added easily with #19 wire nails which have .091" = 7.927 OD heads, .016" = 1.4" and .047 shanks and Evergreen .030" X .156" strip. Drill #55 center holes .046" down from floor. Nails heads may be polished on abrasive, if needed; then should be BLACKENED and mounted after painting sill.
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MINIMUM SPACING WITH BUFFERS AND FACE PLATE ON 18" R
Endsill Clearance = .003 and buffer extension = .008, which should bring clearance to about .011" for a total of .022". Face plate to mounting center = .294".
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